Inspirational Vitamin - 05/08/08

"Permission to Return"
Nehemiah 2:1-10
 
Nehemiah wasn't ashamed to admit his fear, but he refused to allow fear to stop him from doing what God had called him to do.  When we allow fear to rule us, we make fear more powerful than God.  Is there a task God wants you to do, but fear is holding you back?  God is greater than all your fears.  Recognizing why you are afraid is the first step in committing your fear to God.  Realize that if God had called you to a task, he will help you accomplish it.
 
With little time to think, Nehemiah immediately prayed.  Eight times in this book we read that he prayed spontaneously.  Nehemiah prayed at any time, even while talking with others.  He knew that God is always in charge, is always present, and hears and answers every prayer.  Nehemiah could confidently pray throughout the day because he had established an intimate relationship with God during times of extended prayer.  If we want to reach God with our emergency prayers, we need to take time to cultivate a strong relationship with God through times of in-depth prayer.
 
After his prayer, Nehemiah asked the king for permission to go to Judah.  As soon as he got a positive answer, he began asking for additional help.  Sometimes when we have needs, we hesitate to ask the right people for help because we are afraid to approach them.  Not Nehemiah!  He went directly to the person who could help him the most.  Don't be reluctant to ask those who are most able to help.  They may be more interested and approachable than you think.  God's answers to prayer may come as a result of our asking others.
 
Nehemiah had position, power, and many good organizational skills, but he acknowledged that God's gracious hand was upon him.  He knew that without God's strength, his efforts would be in vain.  Do you acknowledge God as your power source and the giver of your gifts?
 
When Nehemiah arrived in Judah, he was greeted with opposition.  Opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem had been going on for 90 years by those who settled in the area where the Jews were taken captive.  In every generation there are those who hate God's people and try to block God's purpose.  When you attempt to do God's work, some will oppose you; some will even hope you fail.  If you expect opposition, you will be prepared rather than surprised (1 John 3:13).  Knowing that God is behind your task is the best incentive to move ahead in the face of opposition.
 
TODAY'S BLACK HISTORY FACT:
 
On this day in 1925, A. Phillip Randolph organized the "Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters", a trailblazing Black labor union.  Also, on this day in 1970, the "Chicago Seven" Panther indictment was dropped.
 
QUOTE OF THE DAY:
 
"I didn't lose the gold.  I won the silver." - Michelle Kwan